Nesting on the northwest side of Turkey, lying by the foothills of Mount Uludag, Bursa is a vast and vibrant Turkish city. It boasts of fascinating heritage and charming cultures and traditions. The city is filled with breathtaking mosques and historical sites originating from the Ottoman period. It features hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals for travelers’ accommodation needs as well. Bursa is also referred to as the Green Bursa because of its dramatic mountain backdrop and its numerous green spaces and parks. While in the city, be sure to visit the 14th-century Grand Mosque of Bursa and marvel at its beauty and intricacy. You might also want to bag some precious silk at the Koza Han. Also, you can not end your Bursa escapade without seeing the Green Tomb and be fascinated by its stunning architecture. For a more in-depth guide, here is a list of fantastic things to do in Bursa, Turkey, that you might want to try.
Where to stay in Bursa, Turkey
Surrounded by green mountain ranges on one side and culturally rich city structures on the other side, Bursa is a panoramic paradise to those who visit this ancient city. As a guest on tour, you should not only know which among the top Bursa attractions to visit. You also have to discover where in the city you could temporarily settle so you make the most out of your trip. Luckily, Bursa is teeming with accommodations that do not only provide a comfortable night’s rest but also bring you up-close to Bursa’s rich culture, deep history, and impressive architecture, while also providing you with comfort, convenience, mobility, and accessibility during your stay.
Here are our top recommendations on where to stay:
1. Witness the incomparable beauty of the Grand Mosque of Bursa
Bursa is a charming city with lots of stunning Mosques, one of them is the Grand Mosque of Bursa located in Nalbantoğlu, Ulucami Cd. Boasting of a fascinating Seljuk-style architectural design with Islamic inspirations, the Grand Mosque of Bursa is one of several remaining Ottoman structures in the city. It was built between the years 1396 to 1399, featuring a total of 30 domes and two minarets. This breathtaking mosque is definitely one of the most valuable treasures of the city that you must not miss while in Bursa.
Grand Mosque of Bursa
Address: Nalbantoğlu, Ulucami Cd., 16010 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Grand Mosque of Bursa
2. Bag some precious silk in Koza Han
The city of Bursa is popular for lots of mosques, green spaces, and a vibrant culture. Not only that, but it is also acknowledged for its precious silk. You can not leave the city without bagging some of these lovely fabrics. To find the quality ones, go to the bustling Koza Han. It is a charming multilevel silk market with lots of retailers and wonderful offerings. Its Ottoman-era architecture is another reason to visit this fascinating place. Also, it is a fantastic place to make friends with locals and ask about travel tips and other helpful guides.
Koza Han
Address: Osmangazi, Uzunçarşı Cd., 16010 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Koza Han
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 7:30pm; Sat: 8am - 8pm; Sun: 10:30am - 6:30pm
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3. Check out the enchanting Inca Historic Tree
Located in İnkaya, Uludağ Cd, the Inca Historic Tree is an enchanting 600-year-old landmark in the city. It was said that a Sultan (King) in the Ottoman era once had a dream about a tree that grows in his stomach. Later on that day, the Inca Historic Tree was discovered in the city. Because of this legend, the locals made the tree and its surrounding area a sacred ground. Lots of charming restaurants and laid-back cafes surround the tree. This is one of the most popular attractions in Bursa, frequently visited by tourists.
Inca Historic Tree
Address: İnkaya, Uludağ Cd. No:163, 16370 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Inca Historic Tree
4. Visit the iconic Muradiye Complex
Also known as the Complex of Sultan Murad II, the Muradiye Complex is a stunning mosque that houses 12 tombs, mostly belonging to Sultan Murad II’s relatives. It is breathtaking in terms of architectural design as well as intricacy. Due to an earthquake in the year 1855, a large fraction of the mosque has undergone a restoration. This marvelous landmark is located in the heart of the city, close to other marvelous landmarks, retail shops, and excellent restaurants.
Muradiye Complex
Address: Muradiye, Prf. Dr. Halil İnalcık Sk., 16050 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
5. Drop by the Green Tomb
Nesting in Yeşil, 1. Yeşil Cd, The Green Tomb is a stunning mausoleum that belongs to Mehmed I, the fifth sultan of the Ottoman era. Turquoise colored tiles dominate the facade of the structure, gaining its Green Tomb name. It’s been long-standing since 1421. It plays a significant symbolism in the history of the city, intentionally built to be higher than the Green Mosque. Its uniqueness is considered the perfect example of the Ottoman tomb architecture. Opposite the Green Tomb is the Yeşil Mosque, which you should also see when you’re in the area.
The Green Tomb
Address: Yeşil, 1. Yeşil Cd. 66-1, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
Website: The Green Tomb
6. Score some precious items at Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar in Bursa is a large covered shopping district filled with different retail products like pieces of jewelry, clothing, artisan items, and other valuable finds. It also has lots of antique stuff that is popular to tourists and locals alike. The place features a majestic interior design with inspirations from the Ottoman era. It is a fantastic go-to if you want to immerse in the city’s culture and bag home some precious souvenir as well. In addition, you will also find food stalls and nearby restaurants that are convenient whenever you need to re-energize your body from hours of sightseeing and shopping.
Grand Bazaar
Address: Duaçınarı, Kırkpınar Cd. No:21, 16270 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Grand Bazaar
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
7. Walk through the sections of Bursa City Museum
If you like immersing in cultures and learning about heritage whenever you visit foreign cities, you should definitely explore the Bursa City Museum when you visit Bursa. It is a charming museum with intricate interior design and houses a wide collection of dioramas, artifacts, traditional workshops, and other interesting items. Going through the sections of the museum will make you feel like you have traveled through time, stretching from the Ottoman period up to the present time.
Bursa City Museum
Address: Hocaalizade Mahallesi Atatürk Caddesi 6, 6. Kültür Sk. No:8, 16010, 16230 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Bursa City Museumn
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5:30am (closed on Mon)
8. Marvel at the spectacular views from Tophane Citadel
The Citadel of Tophena is located in Osmangazi. This bustling district is considered the oldest area in the city. It is even listed in the UNESCO World Heritage listings. Perched atop a historic hill, the Tophane Citadel is close to the tombs of Orhan Gazi and Osman Gazi. It features a fine dining restaurant that serves excellent Turkish dishes as well as continental specialties. From this vantage point, guests can marvel at the beauty of the spectacular view of the area from above. It is a favorite hangout spot in the city of Bursa.
Tophane Citadel
Address: Osmangazi, 2. Osman Gazi Cd., 16040 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Take your kids to Bursa Zoo
If you are traveling to the beautiful city of Bursa with your family, especially your kids, they will surely love to spend a day at the Bursa Zoo. It is a small lovely zoo that is home to various global species such as giraffes, grizzly bears, zebras, and a couple of lions. The zoo features terrariums that resemble the actual habitat of each animal species. Not only that, but the zoo also has laid back cafes where guests can chill for a while and enjoy some delightful snacks. To ensure their top-most commitment in animal care, the zoo has programs and training for their caretakers so that the animals would live a happier and healthier life while in the zoo.
Bursa Zoo
Address: Soğanlı Mah. Mahallesi 1, Nilüfer Cd. No:260, 16160 Osmangazi, Turkey
Website: Bursa Zoo
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: From 1 USD
10. Fly high on a Bursa Uludağ Gondola ride
There’s nothing more calming than riding in a gondola as you marvel at the spectacular natural views. While in Bursa, you might want to experience a fantastic gondola ride in Bursa Uludag Gondola. Located in Piremir, Teleferik Cd., operating daily, book a ride of the gondola operated by Cable Car Inc. and enjoy a feeling of flying. Throughout the ride, you will get to see mountainous landscapes, forest canopies. bustling districts, and lots of lush greeneries.
Bursa Uludağ Gondola
Address: Piremir, Teleferik Cd. No:84, 16340 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Bursa Uludağ Gondola
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
11. Camp and hike at Uludag National Park
If you like exploring natural wonders and being one with nature as well as physical activities, you might like to hike the Uludag National Park. Open to hikers and campers 24/7, this gorgeous national park boasts of picturesque views and relaxing green spaces. From here you will see the majestic view of the bustling city from above. To top it all off, during the night, the views turn into an oasis of sparkling city lights and starry skies. Lots of tourists prefer spending the night in the park and setting up camp, waking up to the cool air and a coffee in hand.
Uludag National Park
Address: Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Uludag National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Visit the enchanting Saitabat Şelalesi
Situated in Saitabat, the enchanting Saitabat Selalesi is one of the most-visited natural attractions in the city. It nests 30 minutes away from the bustling downtown. This gorgeous waterfall is ideal for swimming and exploring nature. Its freshwater rejuvenates every tired muscle in your body. But not only that, in the surrounding area, there are charming casual cafes that will give you the experience of dining with your feet in the water. When visiting the Saitabat Salalesi, be sure to wear your most comfortable slippers as the route may be really slippery.
Saitabat Şelalesi
Address: Saitabat, 16450 Kestel/Bursa, Turkey
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Take souvenir pictures of Nusretiye Clock Tower
Situated in Tophane, also referred to as Tophane Clock Tower, Nusretiye Clock Tower is a fascinating landmark in Bursa. It is close to the Tophane Kiosk and the Nusretiye Mosque. Built in 1905, it was constructed with a primary purpose of being a fire tower because of its panoramic views when you stand at the top of it. The area where it stands is a bustling district with lots of nearby restaurants, cafes, and retail shops. Lots of tourists and locals flock in this district to relax for a while and enjoy shopping.
Nusretiye Clock Tower
Address: Osmangazi, Yiğitler Cd. 2-3, 16040 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
14. Gorge on delicious eats at Deniz Tabagi
Tired of all the city tours and landmarks visits? You might want to pause from the touristy activities and immerse in the city’s excellent eats. If you agree with the idea, check out the food and the vibes at the Deniz Tabagi. Located in Kuruçeşme, Sakarya Cd, this charming and casual restaurant features a simple interior design with vintage charm. It is spacious and has lots of natural light and a laid-back outdoor seating where you can dine while observing the bustling scene of the district. The area where it is located has lots of other restaurants and retail shops and can get really busy. So, you might want to come over early for a table.
Deniz Tabagi
Address: Kuruçeşme, Sakarya Cd. No:17, 16350 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Deniz Tabagi
Opening hours: 12pm - 1am (daily)
15. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings at Reşat Oyal Culture Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This 40-hectare (99 acres) park is considered to be the largest and most important park in the city. Opened in 1955, this gorgeous park is the venue for the vibrant Bursa Festival. It boasts of gorgeous flora, lush greens, and comfortable benches where guests can sit for a while as they enjoy the peace and quiet as well as the lovely views. It also features a stunning lake that adds romantic charm to the place. You might want to experience visiting at night and see the sky light up with bright stars and the park with post lights. It also features a fantastic playground for kids and excellent biking and jogging routes for fitness enthusiasts.
Reşat Oyal Culture Park
Address: Gaziakdemir, Çekirge Cd. No:6, 16190 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Reşat Oyal Culture Park
Opening hours: 8am - 1:30pm (daily)
16. Swing by the Bursa Archaeological Museum
Situated in Gaziakdemir Mh, Kültür Park, the Bursa Archaeological Museum is a charming national museum in the city. It boasts of fascinating exhibits of archaeological monuments, sculptures, artifacts, vintage items, and other valuable objects that are essential in telling the history of the city, especially the Ottoman era. Most of the displays here are found within the province. Some of the interesting items on display include the Reliquary Byzantine, a reconstructed burial site, a bronze Athena figure of the second century, a Hellenistic figurine, and a lot more.
Bursa Archaeological Museum
Address: Gaziakdemir Mh, Kültür Park, Çekirge Cd. 4/11 D:1, 16050 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Bursa Archaeological Museum
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
17. Be part of history by visiting the Irgandı Bridge
Bursa is indeed a city with a fascinating heritage and a rich history. One testament to that is the historic Irgandi Bridge in Kurtoğlu, Gökdere Blv. No:14. Nesting above Gökdere, this bridge was commissioned by Müslihidddin in 1442, a wealthy merchant. It was established in the year 1142, during the rule of Murat II in the Ottoman era. Notably, this bridge played a big role in the Turkish War of Independence against the British as it was bombed causing the Greek army to retreat and for Turkey to achieve victory. Because of the destruction, the bridge was closed to temporarily and was renovated in 1949 to be a symbol of success to the Turkish people. Since then, it has undergone restoration efforts to maintain its structure.
Irgandı Bridge
Address: Kurtoğlu, Gökdere Blv. No:14, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
18. Be in awe at Tofaş Museum of Cars and Anatolian Carriages
If you are into automobiles and this kind of technology, you will surely be fascinated by the collections of valuable vehicles in Tofaş Museum of Cars and Anatolian Carriages. This charming museum is a private transport museum in the city. It houses various modes of transport from different eras. It showcases a wide collection of carriages from ancient times as well as vintage cars to modern ones. Not only that, but it also features an interesting exhibit and gallery of old photographs that give guests a better glimpse of the changing times. This place is a paradise for car enthusiasts. Come over with your friends, and share the fantastic experience of traveling through time while browsing the collection and displays.
Tofaş Museum of Cars and Anatolian Carriages
Address: Umurbey, Fabrika Sk., 16030 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Tofaş Museum of Cars and Anatolian Carriages
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
19. Pay your respects at Tomb of Osman I
Osman I is one of the founding fathers of the Ottoman period. It is no wonder his tomb is considered a historical landmark in Bursa. It features a majestic Byzantine architectural design that will leave you in awe at its beauty and intricacy. Together with the tomb of Orhan Gazi, the century-old historical site is open to the public. Located in the bustling area of Osmangazi, Yiğitler Cd., close to the iconic Nusretiye Clock Tower, tourists treat themselves to a dining and shopping escapade in this area filled with lots of various attractions. While in the city, be sure to pay respect in the Tombs of Osman I and Orhan Gazi.
Tomb of Osman I
Address: Osmangazi, Yiğitler Cd. No:4, 16040 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Tomb of Osman I
20. Spend quality time in Bursa Botanical Park
If you are done with the touristy stuff such as museum visits and sightseeing, you might want to spend a relaxing day with your family. Boasting of majestic natural views and a green space filled with lovely flora and rich vegetation, the Bursa Botanical Park is a charming place too. Diverse trees and a stunning pond adorn this place, and comfortable benches are scattered throughout the park for guests to take advantage of. Lots of people visit the Bursa Botanical Park to have some picnic time with their families or enjoy a few laps of cardio exercises.
Bursa Botanical Park
Address: Çukurcaköy, Nilüfer Cd., 16190 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Bursa Botanical Park
Opening hours: 8am - 11pm (daily)
21. Witness the sophisticated beauty of Hüdavendigar Mosque
Considered as a historic landmark in Bursa, Hüdavendigar Mosque is a fascinating structure and attraction that boasts of a stunning Ottoman architectural design with a mix of Islamic accents. Built by Murad I, an Ottoman sultan, this iconic mosque has survived the trying times, including an earthquake in 1855. Its bright furnishings with turquoise highlights will take your breathe away. It exudes elegance and sophistication that is fit for a royal.
Hüdavendigar Mosque
Address: Osmangazi, 1. Murat Cad. No:8, 16265 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Hüdavendigar Mosque
22. Discover the French-empire influenced lodge of Hünkâr Köşkü
Another charming historic structure in Bursa is the Hünkâr Köşkü, located in Mollaarap Mh., Köşk Cad. No:2. It features a stunning, simple, yet elegant house that boasts of fascinating history. Once home to different sultans including Sultan Abdülmecit, Sultan Abdülaziz, and Sultan Mehmet Reşat V, this charming lodge exudes class, luxury, and sophistication in every corner. Its French-empire design is a breath of fresh air from the typical Ottoman architecture of most historic sites in the city. Another reason to visit the gorgeous Hünkâr Köşkü is the spectacular view of the city from this site.
Hünkâr Köşkü
Address: Mollaarap Mh., Köşk Cad. No:2, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Hünkâr Köşkü
Opening hours: 9am - 11:30pm (daily)
23. Take your kids to Bursa Science and Technology Center
Do you have an inclination towards science and technology? Do you consider yourself a science geek? Well, whether you are an expert on this field of study or a regular curious Tom, you might want to check out the Bursa Science and Technology center during your Bursa vacation. It showcases lots of fascinating exhibits and galleries that will surely quench your thirsty thought. Aside from that, it has a breathtaking planetarium that will bring you to space without leaving Bursa. You might also want to experience an interactive experiment at the test center and the darkroom. In addition, when you get hungry or tired, there is a fantastic cafe on site where you can refill your energy.
Bursa Science and Technology Center
Address: Altınova, Fuar Cd. No:23, 16250 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Bursa Science and Technology Center
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
24. Take pictures of the historic Setbaşı Köprüsü
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
One of the many landmarks that make Bursa a fascinating city is the historic Setbaşı Köprüsü in Kurtoğlu, Atatürk Cd. No:1. This bridge connects two districts in the city, the Yıldırım, and Osmangazi. It showcases two-point arches, a bigger one and a smaller one. Like many other structures in the city, it features a stunning Ottoman architectural style. From the bridge, you will see marvelous views. Also, nearby cafe shops are offering delicious local cuisine.
Setbaşı Köprüsü
Address: Kurtoğlu, Atatürk Cd. No:1, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa, Turkey
25. Watch a shadow performance at Karagoz Museum
If you want to learn more about Bursa’s vibrant culture and art scene, you should check out the Karagoz Museum and be sure to watch a live shadow performance. The museum’s main goal is to make the glitzy art of Karagoz available to the public. The museum houses two fascinating galleries that are updated with a modern touch. Both of them houses a collection of old photographs, memorabilia, and other relevant items that help narrate the Karagoz heritage. Occasionally, the museum presents shadow performances for guests to enjoy.
Karagoz Museum
Address: Çekirge, Çekirge Cd. No:159, 16265 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Karagoz Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Mon)
26. Make friends with other tourists at Fomara Meydanı
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Formara Meydani is a bustling area in Reyhan Mah that is a popular meeting point and hangout place in the city. Surrounded by a plethora of excellent restaurants, laid back cafes, retail stores, and souvenir shops, there are lots of business establishments to try in this area. The place features an open space with benches where you can relax for a while and observe the Turkish lifestyle. Lots of stray doves also adorn the place, and some tourists feed them and take souvenir pictures with them.
Fomara Meydanı
Address: Reyhan Mah., Haşim İşcan Cad. No:2, 16030 Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
27. Take your family to Ninova Aquapark for a memorable time
If you are traveling in Bursa with your family, you might want to take them to the Ninova Aquapark and spend a relaxing day bonding and making lasting memories. It is a spectacular waterpark with vast swimming pools, lengthy slides, exciting tunnels, and a water playground. Surrounding the pool are comfortable benches that guests can take advantage of. Also, there are available snack bars and restrooms for guests’ added conveniences. It also has a state of the art gym facility for fitness enthusiasts.
Ninova Aquapark
Address: Ertuğrul, Ahmet Taner Kışlalı Blv., 16120 Nilüfer/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Ninova Aquapark
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6:30am (daily)
28. Enjoy wakeboarding in Sukay Park
Another fantastic attraction you will find in Bursa is Sukay Park. It is a vast waterpark for people who like extreme water sports. This complex is ideal for wakeboarding and waterskiing, having challenging obstacles and cable equipment. Lots of tournaments are conducted here, and everyone is free to participate. Not only that, but it also has a lovely little water playground for kids to enjoy.
Sukay Park
Address: Çukurcaköy, Çukurca Yolu Cd. No:48, 16190 Demirtaş Dumlupınar Osb/Osmangazi/Bursa, Turkey
Website: Sukay Park
Opening hours: 10am - 6:30pm (daily)
Explore the beautiful city of Bursa
Bursa is a beautiful city in Turkey that boasts of fascinating culture and rich heritage. It is filled with grand mosques, serene green spaces, and iconic landmarks. It is a city with the overwhelming charm and exquisite beauty. If you are planning a trip to Bursa anytime soon, use this list of the best things to do in the city as your guide in planning an itinerary. May you have a fantastic adventure ahead.
In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.
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